Fifteen realtors have joined the ranks of Florida Realtors' Board Certified Professionals for 2024. The newly certified members include Cathy Alley, Michele Bailey, Hollie Billero Buldo, Cindy Birge, Eddie Blanco, Sandra Fernandez, Benjamin Gilbert, Erin Halstead, Patti E. Ketcham, Gonzalo Mejia, Catherine "Cookie" Miller, Charles Sowers, Tula Tucker, Sue Vasquez and Mary Anne Windes.

Jaime Caballero, a real estate professional in Key West, has built a notable career through her dedication to property management and community involvement. Initially entering the field out of necessity, Caballero explained, “I became a real estate agent only because I [needed my license] when I changed companies.” After managing properties for a prominent local family, she joined Century 21, which required her to obtain an agent's license.

Closed sales of existing single-family homes statewide totaled 23,353, up 5.2% year-over-year, while existing condo-townhouse sales totaled 8,364, down 1.2% over July 2023, according to data from Florida Realtors Research Department in partnership with local Realtor boards/associations. Closed sales may occur from 30 to 90-plus days after sales contracts are written.

Florida Realtors® has highlighted the multifaceted benefits of grass lawns, citing their positive impacts on people, pets, and the environment. According to The TurfMutt Foundation, which promotes the care and use of green spaces such as yards and parks, grass lawns offer several significant advantages.

The survey found that residential, industrial, and timber land posted the strongest price growth by type of land, aligning with pre-COVID performance. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), land value accounts for 41% of household real estate assets based on Federal Reserve Board data on household real estate and the cost of structures.

Monthly volunteering and annual monetary donations by Realtors increased this past year, demonstrating their continued dedication to giving back.

Florida Realtors® have issued guidance urging residents to be prepared for the hurricane season by assembling an emergency supply kit that includes nonperishable foods and supplies tailored to meet a family’s and pet’s health and medical needs.

Florida Realtors has been recognized once again in the "100 Best Companies To Work For In Florida" list. CEO Margy Grant remarked, “Creating a culture of trust and empowerment is an everyday process. Here at Florida Realtors, we invite our employees into the discussion for our mission to be the ‘Voice for Real Estate in Florida’ – they’re as important to our brand as any of our products, tools or services.”

Adam R. Jonas has built a robust career in real estate, transitioning from foreclosure firms to sales over the past 22 years. Working alongside his brother Michael at their Naples location, Jonas has also ventured into the insurance industry with Foundation Rock Insurance Group.

Last month, closed sales of existing single-family homes statewide totaled 23,183, down 11.1% year-over-year, while existing condo-townhouse sales totaled 8,339, down 20.5% over June 2023, according to data from Florida Realtors Research Department in partnership with local Realtor boards/associations. For the second quarter of 2024, statewide existing single-family home sales totaled 74,117, down 2.2% from the same period in 2023. Statewide existing condo-townhouse sales totaled 28,982 for the quarter, marking a decline of 9.2% year-over-year.

The Florida Realtors Education Foundation has awarded $242,500 in scholarships to students across the state. This initiative, now in its 14th year, has assisted 1,986 young individuals in pursuing higher education.

Following each house showing, the pair would find themselves in the owner’s kitchen, cups of tea in their hands, discussing the day's progress. Potential offers were dissected, and the emotional ups and downs patiently navigated. Pamela wasn't just selling a home; she was helping a friend find her way through an emotional labyrinth. Finally, after a year and a half, “The homeowner finally came to terms and agreed to an offer that was identical to the first one I brought her. At the previous time, she just wasn't ready,” says Smith.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has announced significant policy changes following a recent settlement. These changes, outlined on NAR’s settlement FAQ page, will take effect on August 17, 2024.

Last month, closed sales of existing single-family homes statewide in Florida totaled 26,252, marking a slight year-over-year decline of 0.5%. Existing condo-townhouse sales amounted to 10,415, reflecting an 8.6% drop compared to May 2023. Closed sales can occur from 30 to over 90 days after sales contracts are written.

Realtors in Florida are actively promoting housing opportunities and supporting individuals in achieving the American dream of homeownership. Homeownership has long been a cornerstone for many families, providing both emotional and social benefits while significantly contributing to household wealth. According to recent research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average net worth of a homeowner in 2022 was $396,200, which is approximately 38 times greater than that of a renter at $10,410.